NNPC Delivers PH Refinery on Schedule, Achieves Mechanical Completion

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24/12/2023

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has fulfilled its pledge of achieving the mechanical completion of rehabilitation work on Area 5 Plant of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).

Rehabilitation work has been on-going at the Refinery for over two years and the NNPC Limited had pledged to complete Phase One of the project (mechanical completion and flare start-up) of Old Port Harcourt Refinery (Area 5) by 31st December 2023.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the rehabilitation project, which also coincided with the 15th Refineries’ Rehabilitation Steering Committee Meeting, the Group Chief Executive Officer, NNPC Limited, Mr. Mele Kyari, said as of December 15th, 2023, 84.4% of Area 5 Plant, a key component of the Refinery, and 77.4% of the entire rehabilitation project have been completed.

“In our quest to ensure that this refinery is re-streamed to continue to deliver value to Nigerians, we made a promise that we will reach a mechanical completion of phase one of the rehabilitation project by the end of December and get the other plants running in 2024. Today, we have kept those commitments,” Kyari stated.

The GCEO commended the NNPC Ltd.’s staff and the EPCIC contractors for doing a great job in ensuring that the refinery achieved that significant milestone.

In his remarks, the Chairman of NNPC Limited Board, Chief Pius Akinyelure described the milestone as “historic”, stressing that the board was proud of the staff and management of the refinery.

“We are just starting. We want to be at the highest level of production so that we will keep the prices of petroleum prices in the country stable in order to give comfort to our people and generate more revenue for our country,” Akinyelure noted.

Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, said the milestone is another landmark of the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He thanked Nigerians for their patience and the trust they have in NNPC Limited’s ability to deliver on this huge project.

In his address, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, said re-streaming the Refinery will herald a good omen for the nation’s Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) industry, as LPG, also known as cooking gas, is a major bye-product of the Refinery.

Also speaking, the Managing Director of Tecnimont Nigeria Limited, Fabio Del Cioppo, one of the EPC Contractors of the Rehabilitation Project, said his company remains committed to fulfilling the terms of the contract.

The PHRC rehabilitation project, which costs about $1.5bn, is an EPCIC project that covers Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning phases. For Area 5, the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Installation have all been completed. The mechanical completion signifies the closure of the Construction and Installation phases.

More importantly, the milestone was achieved under an excellent Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) record, which stood at over 9.5 million manhours with zero Loss Time Injury (LTI).

CIIN President, Registrar Honour The Nation’s Insurance Editor at Father’s Burial

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24/12/2023

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L-R: Mr. Edwin Igbiti, President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN); Mrs. Omobola Tolu-Kusimo, The Nation Newspaper’s Insurance & Pension Editor and Mrs. Abimbola Tiamiyu, the Registrar/CEO of CIIN at the recent burial ceremony of Omobola’s father in Lagos.

Insurfeel: NCRIB LAC Donates N15.3m Insurance Policies to Winners of Quiz Competition

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24/12/2023

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Ademola Olutusin

Chairman

NCRIB- LAC

The Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers Lagos Area Committee (NCRIB LAC) has procured and donated School Fees Protection Plan and Kiddies Insurance, tagged School Care Cover amounting to N15.3 million to winners of its recently held secondary schools quiz competition.

The insurance cover which is underwritten by Universal Insurance Plc would enable each of the six winners of the quiz competition enjoy a limit cover of N2.5 million for one year. The winners are: Master Sanni Shazily and Miss Zainab Adelabu, both in SS3 at Aje Comprehensive Senior High School, Sabo-Yaba, who emerged first position from the competition.

Miss Zubeidat Idris in SS3 and Master Michael Ogunade in SS2 at Ijaye-Ijokoro Senior High School, Ijaye, bagged second position.

Miss Misturat Folorunso and Master Qudus Alamu, both in SS3 of Araromi Senior High School, Orile-Iganmu, came third.

Under the cover, the students would enjoy medical expenses worth N150,000; permanent disability benefit of N500,000 and death benefit of N500,000, while their guardian (parent) would have permanent disability benefit of N700,000 and death benefit of N700,000.

Chairman, NCRIB- LAC, Ademola Olutusin, said the students and their schools emerged best, having competed with nine schools across the state.

“Folowing the insurance cover, if anything happens to the students either in school, at home or anywhere, the policy would take care of their medical bills to a certain amount. The coverage for the parents implies that if anything happens to the parents during the insurance coverage, the policy would pay a lump sum to take care of the students’ education,” he said.

According to him, the quiz competition is part of the Area Committee’s catch-them- young initiative on deepening insurance penetration.

The NCRIB-LAC chairman said the competition was also an avenue to sensitise the students to how to become chartered insurers after completing their secondary school level education without going to the university.

Olutusin submitted that the brokers would not rest on their oars to promote insurance business in the country, as plans were also on ground to spread the benefits to university students.

The donation is part of the NCRIB Lagos Area Committee’s partnership with Insurfeel Initiative; promoters of donation of free insurance policies to outstanding students and individuals in the society.

The partnership would enable deserving students enjoy free insurance protection on personal accident while in school, on vacation and anywhere within Nigeria and also provides payment of school fees to the named beneficiaries of the insured parent/guardian in event of the following occurring: Permanent disability resulting from an accident and death – whether by accident or natural means

Olutusin, said the Area Committee is committed to enhancing education and safety of students, adding that the partnership would impact lives of students, the insurance industry and by extension, the nation.

According to him, the initiative would also enable the students understand and feel the touch and benefits of insurance which remains the best tool to mitigate risks.

The Promoter of Insurfeel Initiative, Chuks Udo Okonta, said the partnership is part of the advocacy strategy of the initiative, stressing that the advocacy strategy entails partnering organisations, associations and groups to adopt donation of free insurance policies to the uninsured.

He noted that the Insurfeel Initiative presently donates two unique insurance policies – School Care Cover and Uni Personal Accident Cover to individuals who have never had much experience on insurance for them to feel how insurance works.

He implored organisations, associations and group especially within the insurance sector to embrace the initiative and use it to offer insurance products as souvenir to the public as against donating of products from other sectors, whilst complaining that insurance penetration is low.

According to him, Insurfeel Initiative has recently donated free insurance policies to members of the public and is committed to donate more even as it promotes the advocacy strategy to get individuals; organisations; associations groups to also make donations.

Insurfeel an initiative developed by the Publisher of Inspenonline, Chuks Udo Okonta, was designed in line with – ‘The Suya Seller Strategy’ – which entails tasting before buying. It stemmed from a research conducted which showed that people who have had positive experience on how insurance works seem to believe and easily embraced the system. This research therefore, necessitates the need to extend insurance experience to more people so as to deepen insurance penetration, provide safety and enhance insurance industry’s profitability.

Insurfeel is targeted towards specific individuals, such as students in secondary schools, teachers and people with distinct impact on lives and the society. They would be selected due to their outstanding performance and contributions to human growth.

The initiative is open to people committed to philanthropy.

“It is my belief that insurance remains one of the best instruments to fight poverty and make the society a comfortable place for mankind. Through Insurfeel, organisations can by means of Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS) donate insurance policies as souvenir and gifts to deserving members of the public. Groups such as Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) committed to improved well-being of the citizenry should leverage Insurfeel to assist the needy to mitigate their risks. Insurance companies should leverage Insurfeel to donate their products as against the present trend where products from other sectors are donated to the public.”

NNPC, TotalEnergies Sign MoU on Adoption of Methane Detection Technology

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19/12/2023

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Executive Vice President, Upstream, NNPC Limited, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan (2nd right) and Managing Director and Country Chair, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer (2nd left), display the signed MoU between NNPC Limited and TotalEnergies on the use of the latter’s Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environment Detection (AUSEA) Technology, aimed at detecting and monitoring methane emissions in oil and gas operations. First from right is the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari and first from left is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, Patrick Pouyanné (standing left).

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with TotalEnergies for the adoption and deployment of a methane detection technology known as Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Application (AUSEA) in all its upstream operations.

With the agreement, which is a direct benefit from the Company’s participation at the recently concluded United Nations Climate Change Conference (also known as COP28) in Dubai, UAE, NNPC Limited will be able to deploy the TotalEnergies AUSEA technology on its upstream operations sites to ascertain the level of methane emissions from them, with a view to working out emission curtailment measures to help in combating global warming and climate change.

The MoU was signed by NNPC Limited’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, and Managing Director and Country Chair, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer, on behalf of their respective companies, under the watch of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, and Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, Patrick Pouyanné.

Speaking on the collaboration at the MoU signing event, the GCEO, NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, described TotalEnergies as a great and reliable partner over the years with whom the Company was looking forward to exploring greater opportunities in the nation’s energy sector.

On his part, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of TotalEnergies, Patrick Pouyanné, said his company was offering the technology to NNPC Limited in keeping with its commitment to promote responsible production of hydrocarbons.

He applauded NNPC Limited for its successful transition into a limited liability company, stressing that he could see and feel the energy that the reforms have brought about, not only in the company but also in the sector.

Putting the deal in proper perspective, the NNPC Limited’s Executive Vice President, Upstream, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, said the pilot phase of the TotalEnergies AUSEA deployment would be on NNPC Limited’s owned operations, adding that the deal would enable the company to deploy methane abatement measures.

Other benefits of the TotalEnergies AUSEA technology include identification of unaccounted emission sources, establishment of a basis for querying and improving current emission reporting processes, provision of data to review operational system and implement corrective actions, and estimation of flare combustion efficiency.

New NCDMB ES, Omatsola Ogbe, Assumes Office, Charges Staff on High Performance

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19/12/2023

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Executive Secretary, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe (5^th Left) in a meeting with the Directors and management of the Board at the Board’s liaison office in Abuja.

The newly appointed Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe has assumed office and held his first official meeting with the Directors and management of the Board.

Ogbe was appointed by President Bola Tinubu, replacing Engr. Simbi Kesiye Wabote, who had served for seven and half years in office.

At a meeting at the NCDMB’s Abuja liaison office, the new Executive Secretary received a high-level briefing on the Board’s projects and initiatives from the Directors and senior management.

In his remarks, the new NCDMB boss lauded the achievements recorded by the agency, especially the human capacity development programme which had produced Nigerians who now provide high-tech services in other African oil-producing countries.

Commenting on the Nigerian Content 10-year strategic roadmap which had recorded 54 percent achievement in the 6^th year of implementation, Ogbe announced that expert consultants would be invited to certify the performance and metrics, to give it more authenticity.

He charged senior officials of the Board to continue delivering high performance in their various roles, to sustain the Board’s premium position. He also indicated the need for the Board to carry out sensitization programmes to key stakeholders in cities across Nigeria on the opportunities created by the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act.

Ogbe also harped on the need for the Board to work closely with its contractors to speed up the delivery of its direct projects such as the Nigerian Oil and Gas Parks Scheme, to realize their objectives for the economy.

The new Executive Secretary hails from Warri South in Delta State and is a vastly experienced oil and gas engineer and holds separate Masters Degrees in Civil Engineering and Construction Management.

He has over 37 years of experience in core oil and gas operations in Nigeria and local content operations, notably onshore and offshore, LNG, Water Drilling, Treatment and Storage Facilities, Civil, Building & Dredging Engineering, and other construction.

His experiences were garnered in Nigeria, across Africa, Busan, South Korea and USA, where he worked in the Conceptions, Engineering Designs, Project and Construction Management to Commissioning Phases of projects.

His work experiences include Chevron Corporation, where he held top positions in Nigeria and overseas, before he retired voluntarily in June 2014, to go into private business.

While at Chevron Nigeria Limited, he served as Construction Services Group Superintendent (Escravos-Warri) and was responsible for in-house construction services requirements to support the Company Operations.

He equally served as Offshore Projects Manager, where he was responsible for all the Engineering designs, Planning and execution of Maintenance works and installation of new facilities to support productions in Chevron Nigeria Limited offshore locations.

Other assignments he held in Chevron included Construction Manager (Lagos & Escravos-Warri), Escravos Gas Project (EGP-3B), where he was responsible for the fabrication and installation of various sizes of pipelines/flowlines in offshore and onshore locations in the Niger Delta.

In his early years, he served as Construction Superintendent responsible for Engineering Designs and Construction requirements, and also worked as the Cost Control Engineer and was responsible for all Facility Engineering Division Projects’ cost controls, budgeting and cashcalls.

Ogbe is a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, Council of Registered Engineers, and American Institute of Civil Engineers, and is married with children.

Heirs Energies Honoured for Sustainable Operations at NBLA 2023

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19/12/2023

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Heirs Energies, an indigenous-owned integrated energy company has marked another milestone by securing the esteemed “Excellence in Sustainable Energy Operations” award at the 2023 Nigerian Business Leadership Awards (NBLA) organised by BusinessDay Media.

This accolade reaffirms Heirs Energies’ strategy towards meeting Africa’s unique energy needs in a sustainable manner.

The Nigerian Business Leadership Awards (NBLA) honours outstanding achievements across various sectors, acknowledging innovation, impact, and sustainable practices among companies nationwide. Heirs Energies emerged a clear leader in the sectoral awards category for its exemplary contributions to sustainable energy operations, a testament to its dedication to revolutionising the energy landscape.

Chief executive Officer of Heirs Energies, Osayande Igiehon, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating:

“This award is a testament to our team’s relentless dedication and validates our commitment to a shared destiny with the local communities in which we operate. At Heirs Energies, sustainability is not just a goal but our guiding principle driving every one of our initiatives.”

Heirs Energies prioritises transparency, ethics, and corporate social responsibility, ensuring its operations deliver on its sustainability objectives. By empowering communities, mitigating environmental impact, and driving socio-economic development, Heirs Energies continues to demonstrate the capacity to deliver sustainable energy solutions while leveraging emerging technologies.

About Heirs Energies Limited

Heirs Energies Limited (Formerly known as HeirsHoldings Oil & Gas Limited) is an indigenous-owned integrated energy company, committed to meeting Africa’s unique energy needs while aligning with global sustainability goals in achieving net zero by 2050. Having a strong focus on innovation, environmental responsibility, and community development, Heirs Energies leads the evolving energy landscape and contributes to a more prosperous Africa.

AFCON 2023 Promo: Ecobank Rewards 50 Customers 1st Monthly Draws

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18/12/2023

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Ecobank Nigeria has rewarded 50 of its customers in the first draw of its “Save and Score” promo.

The promo which was initiated by the Bank in November and expected to run till January 6, 2024, was inspired by the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Ecobank, the leading pan-African banking group, is the official sponsor of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023. The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, the biggest event in Africa, will kick off on 13 January 2024 in Côte d’Ivoire.

The promo gives an opportunity to 10 customers of the bank to win an all-expense paid trip to watch the final match of the AFCON tournament in Abidjan Cote d’Ivoire while 100 other customers stand a chance of winning N25,000. It is open to new, existing, and dormant account holders. Customers who make a single deposit of N100,000 and above, maintain a minimum account balance of N100,000 for 30 days, are carded and transact on any of the bank’s digital channels stand a chance of winning.

Speaking on the first draw, Head, Consumer Banking, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, said the bank was impressed with the response of customers to the promo, stressing that the promo was targeted at rewarding loyal and prospective customers of the bank. She urged customers to continue to fund their account to increase their chances of winning. She advised those who are yet to open an account with the bank to do so to participate in the promo and begin to enjoy the bank’s digital offerings and bouquet of products and services.

Prospective customers can open an account on the website (aop.ecobank.com), download the Xpresspoint Application on Google playstore or visit any of its branches. Dormant account holders can also reactivate their accounts, get their cards and start transacting. Customers can fund their accounts via any of the digital platforms.

Speaking earlier on Ecobank’s sponsorship of the AFCON, Jeremy Awori, Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group, said: “As the pan-African bank, Ecobank is proud to associate with the Confederation of African Football to contribute to the success of TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023, the largest and most-enjoyed football tournament, inspiring passion across Africa. Football transcends borders. It brings communities together, fully aligning with Ecobank’s commitment to drive regional integration. It is an honour for Ecobank to play a key role in bringing millions of Africans together to live their passion for football, making sure that loyal customers benefit from this experience.”

Further, he reiterated that “Ecobank carries the pan-African spirit in its DNA, and this partnership with the Confederation of African Football demonstrates its commitment to its pan-African heritage, reinforcing its connection with hundreds of millions of Africans who will be celebrating the magic of football at AFCON 2023. 16 of the 35 African countries in which Ecobank has a presence are among the 24 that are competing in Côte d’Ivoire.”

Christopher University Law School Holds Dinner Week

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18/12/2023

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Managing Director, John Holt Nigeria Plc, Dr. Christopher Eze (left); Partner, Howard Kennedy LLP, Jonathan Huth; Senior partner, Punuka Attorneys & Solicitors, Dr. Anthony Idigbe, (SAN); Founder/Chancellor, Christopher University, Chief (Dr) Christopher Ikechi Eze (MFR); Representative of Ogun State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Mabekoje; Guest Speaker, Mr. Richard Akintunde (SAN); Chairman of BOT, Christopher University, Chief Eric Nwobi; Vice Chancellor, Prof. Olatunji Afolabi Oyelana (left, second roll); Ag. Librarian, Mrs Ogechi Agu and Registrar, Mr. Aloysius Udeoke, during the Christopher University School of Law Week’s Dinner held at the University campus, Mowe, Ogun State.

NNPC Wins The Whistler’s Transparency, Innovation Award

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18/12/2023

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The GCEO, NNPC Limited, Mr. Mele Kyari (3rd from right) displays the 2023 The Whistler Newspaper Transparency & Innovation Award shortly after receiving it from the Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti (second from right). Applauding the moment were from left: MD, NNPC Enserve Limited, Sophia Mbakwe; Publisher/CEO The Whistler, Chief James Ume; NNPC Chief Upstream Investment Officer, Mr. Bala Wunti, President-General, Trade Union Congress (TUC), Festus Osifo and MD, NNPC Trading Limited, Mr. Lawal Sade, during the Newspapers Annual Awards Night held in Abuja on Saturday.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has won this year’s The Whistler Newspaper’s Award for Transparency and Innovation.

The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Company, Mr. Mele Kyari received the award from the Executive Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Alex Otti, on behalf of the Company during the Newspaper’s 2023 Award Night, held yesterday in Abuja, Nigeria.

In his acceptance speech, Kyari expressed NNPC Limited’s commitment to delivering value for its shareholders, stressing that the award will spur the Company to re-dedicate itself towards more transparency and innovation in its operations.

Leadway Health, NUPENG Partner to Provide Comprehensive Health Insurance for 5,000 Tanker Drivers

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18/12/2023

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L-R: President, Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), Alhaji Othman Yusuf; National President, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG); Comrade Williams Akporeha; Head of Operations, Leadway Health, Dr. Gideon Anumba; National Chairman, Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), Comrade Augustine Egbon and General Secretary, Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG); Comrade Olawale O. Afolabi at the official launch and commencement of the Comprehensive Health Insurance scheme for Petroleum Tanker Drivers- an initiative of NUPENG in partnership with Leadway Health in Lagos, Nigeria.

In a landmark collaboration, Leadway Health, a prominent health management organisation in Nigeria, has joined forces with the Petroleum Tankers Drivers of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to introduce a robust and reliable comprehensive health insurance plan for over 5,000 petroleum tanker drivers across Nigeria.

This strategic partnership, officially launched in Lagos on Thursday, December 14, 2023, is aligned with the visionary priorities of the newly elected leaders of the Petroleum Tankers Drivers. These leaders have underscored their commitment to the overall well-being of drivers through purposeful schemes, initiatives, and strategic collaborations.

The comprehensive health insurance package unveiled through this initiative ensures that tanker drivers benefit from uninterrupted healthcare services across a network of over 2,000 hospitals nationwide. This comprehensive health insurance coverage gives the enrolled Petroleum Tanker Drivers access to quality healthcare services, preventative care, emergency medical attention, ambulance services, and selected critical illnesses, thereby eliminating the financial burden of out-of-pocket medical expenditure, fostering peace of mind, and guaranteeing timely medical interventions.

Speaking on the scheme, Dr. Tokunbo Alli, the CEO of Leadway Health Limited, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s objective: “It is our mission as an organisation to provide a comprehensive health insurance cover that prioritises the health and wellbeing of every Nigerian, especially our tanker drivers, who diligently transport petroleum products across the nation, to energise industries and light up homes. Beyond delivering superior healthcare, Leadway Health will also conduct periodic outreaches to facilitate regular checkups and care for Petroleum Tanker Drivers at various locations.”

The National President of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade Williams Akporeha, speaking during the launch, said, “Today marks a historic moment in our Union’s journey towards the betterment of our members. This initiative, in collaboration with Leadway Health, reaffirms our commitment to the wellbeing of our members, emphasising our collective belief that every individual, regardless of occupation, deserves high-quality healthcare services.”

Acknowledging the drivers’ challenging conditions, including difficult terrains, harsh weather, long hours on the roads, and security concerns, Comrade Akporeha emphasised the importance of the Health Insurance Scheme: “We must acknowledge that this profession carries inherent risks and dangers. Accidents, injuries, and health-related complications are unfortunate realities that these brave individuals face every day. However, it is our moral obligation as a Union to provide them with the necessary support, care, and protection they deserve. I hereby urge every tanker driver to embrace this opportunity and utilise it to its fullest.”

Comrade Akporeha encouraged other organisations of like minds to emulate this historic feat by ensuring they implemented similar schemes for their members. “As we embark on this new chapter, I believe this Health Insurance Scheme will serve as a model for other Branches within our great Union. It is my aspiration that the success of this initiative will encourage others to follow suit, creating a society where every member of the Union is protected and cared for.”

Leadway Health Limited’s other product offerings include advanced telemedicine, a health enrolee app that allows authorisation of care by enrolees, digital health tracking, and access to financial and family counselling.

The Enrolee app comprises innovative features such as hospital geo-location capabilities and a pharmacy benefit programme that ensures only genuine drugs from manufacturers are delivered to the homes/offices of those with chronic ailments. The features also include an employee assistance programme to promote mental health, medical concierge services, preventive health programmes that have baby wellness programmes, access to fitness and nutritional stores, customised health tips, talks and newsletters across all age groups with a unique reward system to encourage and promote general wellness amongst others.

9mobile Mentors Jos SMEs with Hack Business Master Class

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14/12/2023

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L-R: Head, HR Business Partnering, 9mobile, Sherriff Popoola; Business Growth Expert, Tricia Olufemi-Olumide; Public Relations Lead, 9mobile, Chineze Amanfo and Head, Brands and Creative Services, 9mobile, Adeola Kayode at The Hack, an entrepreneurship and business mentorship event organised by 9mobile for SMEs held in Jos recently.

9mobile, Nigeria’s Youth-centric telecommunications company recently took its mentorship and business seminar, The Hack to Jos, the Plateau State capital to help thousands of young SME owners and operators grow and promote their businesses. The two-day event which featured a business seminar and products exhibition was held at Mees Palace Event Center, Rayfield Resort Road, Jos.

Opening the session was 9mobile’s Head of Brands and Creative Services, Adeola Kayode, who said business is the driving force of any economy and involves turning problems into opportunities to make a profit. He said that at the end of the Hack seminar, the entrepreneurs would be better positioned to expand their businesses and overcome their current challenges.

“We are here to share knowledge and insights with you on how to grow your business and the kind of opportunities that are available to enable you to excel. We have experts to discuss and share knowledge of the challenges faced by SMEs with the view to providing solutions. There will also be a product exhibition by some of the participants”, he said.

Kayode further explained that the Hack which has been to eight cities across Nigeria, was aimed at boosting the business acumen of SMEs. He pointed out that one of the main challenges faced by SMEs is the lack of access to finance and markets, adding that there is a need to show SMEs a framework on what they should do to maximise opportunities and partnerships when they are available.

“Access to Finance and Market is very key for SME operators. Vendors in Jos can have their biggest markets in other cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, or outside Nigeria. Access to partnerships and collaboration is also very important. Some of the challenges small and growing businesses face can be resolved by other vendors through partnerships and collaborations “, he said.

Business Coach and Marketing Strategist (TriciaBiz), Tricia Olufemi Olumide shared business ideas with the participants on the best way Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) can grow and promote their products and services in their various locations in the state.

Speaking on the topic “Growing Business by Leveraging Online Sales Channels”, the Marketing expert further explained the need for operators of Small and growing businesses to leverage the various opportunities of online platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Instagram beyond selling their products directly to their customers.

The event featured a presentation by Oluwasegun Daodu, Manager, SME Marketing who said 9mobile is helping SMEs to expand their businesses noting that the present crop of young entrepreneurs is the future of Nigeria’s economy.

Also speaking on “Resourcing for Small Businesses, the Role of People in SMEs Growth, the Head, of Human Resources at 9mobile, Sherriff Popoola said the biggest companies today started as SMEs.

According to him, customers are the key element that makes businesses grow, adding that people who want to operate SMEs must understand what they set out to achieve.

The Hack seeks to create a platform to support and promote entrepreneurs in the SME space. It is a business and networking mentorship program facilitated by business experts who share business ideas with participants and groom them to scale their businesses.

The Hack aims to solve specific challenges that entrepreneurs face, with a broad focus on the limitless possibilities in the SME sector.

Transparency Shall Be Our Bedrock in Telecom Regulation – Maida

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14/12/2023

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The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Aminu Maida, has pledged that transparency will form the bedrock of his leadership as Nigeria’s chief telecom regulator as this will enable a solid foundation in building a resilient, accountable and efficient institution.

Maida spoke during a courtesy visit to the Hon. Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani in Abuja recently while briefing the minister on his activities, vision, and strategy since the assumption office in October 2023.

“Transparency is key. It is by transparency that we can self-regulate even as regulators. And by so doing, we would be putting ourselves on our toes, which in the long run will drive the Commission forward to achieve our goals of operational excellence,” Maida stated.

He commended the minister for leading by example in transparency in his leadership style.

“Honourable Minister, sir, one of the principles you have shown as a leader is transparency in all your activities and I must say that it is an attribute that has the potential to bring about a transformed industry that is accountable to both the people and the industry players,” he said.

The NCC boss conveyed his appreciation, through the Minister, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding him worthy of the responsibility to lead a critical sector of the economy.

The EVC told the Minister that the visit is a crucial one which gave him the opportunity to share with the minister, his vision and priorities for the Commission. Maida also said that these priorities were in tandem with delivering on the 5-Pillars of the Strategic Plan unveiled by the Minister.

“I have been on this seat for about six weeks, and it has afforded me the privilege of a bird’s eye view to understand things better, and identify areas that we urgently need to work on. We are currently carrying out an in-depth study and critical review of issues within the industry. One of the areas we are placing priority on is Quality of Experience,” Maida told the Minister.

“At my meeting with industry leaders, we were unambiguous that quality of experience (QoE) will not be negotiable. The Commission will take compliance in this regard seriously, and a standard of what is least acceptable will be set,” the NCC CEO stated.

Maida told the Minister that another priority area for him is broadband connectivity, which he considers as the biggest enabler of the digital economy and financial inclusion. He noted that these align with the 5-pillar agenda of the Ministry.

The NCC CEO also reflected on the need to maximise the potentials of innovations in some technological evolutions such as the 5G revolution in order to create more opportunities within the industry and further boost connectivity.

He informed the Minister that a review of internal processes at the Commission is ongoing to engender efficiency and responsiveness of the Commission, including the digitisation of most of our operations.

“Under my leadership, the Commission will give priorities to the improvement of our regulatory activities. With this, we hope to see more investors come into the telecommunications industry in Nigeria, with the attendant creation of vertical businesses and increased Foreign Direct Investments, revenue generation, and employment”, Maida stated.

The EVC also said that “In all these, the goal is for the Commission to achieve optimal operational excellence which underpins the success of all other priority areas that we have set in order to achieve a significant all-round growth of the telecommunications industry.”

Maida equally recalled his visit to the Digital Bridge Institute in Lagos, where he met an institution with vast potentials that would be an asset in driving a knowledge-based economy, in line with the “Knowledge Pillar” of the Strategic Plan unveiled by the minister.

“Consequently, we will be prioritising the revamp, retooling, and redirection of the Institute towards extracting its optimum value in line with our objectives,” the EVC said.

Dr. Tijani, who warmly welcomed the NCC boss, acknowledged the importance and relevance of the telecom regulator in achieving the nation’s digital aspiration.

“The NCC is a stellar agency, and you have my respect for the work that you do. There is no future for the country without the NCC. Already, the quality you have is good; what we need to do now is to tap into this quality to bring about greater value for the country,” Tijani said.

“I want to assure you that you have the best partner in me. We will work together to achieve the goals and vision we have set,” the Minister assured the NCC CEO.

NNPC Says Crude Oil Production, Price Benchmark for 2024 Budget Realistic

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Business Journal

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14/12/2023

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has assured that the projections on crude oil production and price benchmark for the 2024 Budget were realistic and realisable.

The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Company, Mr. Mele Kyari, gave the assurance during an interactive session with the Senate Committee on Finance at the National Assembly, Abuja on Wednesday.

Speaking on the dynamics of the market in relation to the projected budget benchmark price of $77.96 per barrel, Kyari said: “With what we see in the market today and potentially in the year 2024 and even beyond the next two years, it is very unlikely to see $70 per barrel oil in the market. The oscillation we are seeing, sometimes you do see prices coming down to $75 to the barrel and sometimes it goes above it, overall, benchmarks are averages. We think that the proposal by Mr. President around the $77.96 is still realisable in 2024.”

On the crude oil production projection, he stated: “The number we have is 1.785mbpd. This is cumulative of all oil produced in the country. This figure is inclusive of all production including crude oil and condensate. I need to make this clarification because of the reports in the media that our OPEC quota is 1.5million barrels per day. The OPEC quota is related only to crude oil. We also do between 250,000 to 300,000 barrels per day of condensate in our production. When you combine the two, the 1.78mbpd is realistic and realisable.”

He expressed optimism that though there were challenges such as security and force majeure, the measures being deployed by the Federal Government would be able to take care of them to guarantee the projected level of production.

The GCEO also assured that NNPC Limited will maintain the level of dividends remittance to the Federation Account as stated in the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework, adding that the projected dividends from the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited was also realisable and would be flowed directly into the Federation Account as stipulated by the law.

While answering a question on the Company’s Road Tax Credit Scheme, Kyari explained that all the roads being undertaken under the scheme would be duly completed, adding that the scheme was anchored by the Ministry of Works while the Federal Inland Revenue Service and NNPC Limited were only playing supervisory roles to ensure that value is delivered for every kobo paid.

Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Mohammed Sani Musa, said the purpose of the interactive session was to deepen conversations on the projections in the 2024 Appropriation Bill to help the lawmakers determine what and where to adjust.

He expressed satisfaction with the explanations offered by the NNPC Limited’s helmsman.

AIICO Insurance Marks Six Decades of Excellence in Grand Anniversary Celebration!

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Business Journal

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14/12/2023

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In a recent moment filled with propitiousness, fanfare, and merriment, AIICO Insurance Plc, a leading and frontline player in the underwriting business in Nigeria, commemorated its 60th anniversary.

The event seamlessly brought together management, staff members, ex-staff members, and other stakeholders to reflect on the past journey and toast to the successes and accomplishments of the company over the years.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the company, attributed the staying power of the company to the continued loyalty of the customers as well as the resilience and relentless spirit of the employees.

Drawing a parallel between Nigeria and the company, both of which came into existence around the same time, Fajemirokun highlighted that both entities have weathered and survived turbulent times, demonstrating growth and resilience.

“AIICO, born in the heart of Nigeria, has been a witness and a participant in this nation’s remarkable journey. We’ve grown amidst the oil boom’s promises of the 1970s and adapted during the economic downturns of the 1980s. Our strength was tested during the periods of military rule and the struggle for democracy, yet we emerged stronger, demonstrating the same resilience that defines our nation.”

“In these six decades, AIICO has not only survived but thrived, adapting to changes, overcoming challenges, and seizing opportunities. Our growth mirrors the indomitable spirit of Nigeria – a spirit of perseverance, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” he said.

The AIICO Insurance boss urged employees to continue to innovate, serving its community and contributing to Nigeria’s growth.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to recognise and reward top performers in the organisation.

The event came alive with a pulsating performance by celebrity DJ, DJ Neptune, setting the crowd ablaze with infectious energy and beats that resonated throughout the venue, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of pure excitement. Additionally, Akpororo’s comedic brilliance illuminated the night, sparking laughter that reverberated across the event. His captivating performance seamlessly blended humor and wit, ensuring an evening of refined amusement for all attendees.

AIICO Insurance stands as a leading composite insurer in Nigeria with a record of serving customers that dates back six decades. The company provides life and health insurance, general insurance, and investment management services, dedicated to creating and protecting wealth for individuals, families, and corporate customers.

Entrepreneurs, Customers Relive Experience at Polaris Bank Sponsored Fashion Souk

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Business Journal

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14/12/2023

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Polaris Bank, Nigeria’s premier digital retail Bank, showcased its unwavering commitment to supporting MSMEs by taking center stage as the headline sponsor of the recently concluded two-day Fashion Souk in Lagos.

The Fashion Souk, an electric congregation of fashion enthusiasts, witnessed a surge of businesses eager to secure grants through an intense pitch competition. Beyond financial assistance, Polaris Bank emphasized customer satisfaction, ensuring an exciting fashion experience with operational POS machines and seamless transactions via the award-winning VULTe app.

The event’s high point was the business pitch competition, where three outstanding businesses emerged as grant winners from the shortlisted 73 participating firms. The eco-friendly Man ‘n’ Queens from Ibadan secured the grand prize of One Million Naira. While Hozy Dare Clothing, the first runner-up, celebrated with a grant of Five Hundred Thousand Naira, and Il’ese, the second runner-up, received Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira.

Speaking at the grant presentation, Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer (CDO), said: “These prizes reflect Polaris Bank’s commitment to MSME growth, and we will continue, as a Bank to support and provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to scale.”

Amidst the runway shows and a raffle draw for shoppers, Ijeoma Okolo, goldsmith and owner of 2groom Handsmade, lauded Polaris Bank for supporting MSMEs’ growth. She showcased her exquisite jewelry line, featuring Nigerian-sourced gemstones.

Another participant, Adegbaye Adewale, Founder of KIJIPA, Nigeria’s leading indigenous Couture, described the Souk as an ‘amazing platform’ for certified fashion entrepreneurs, and commended Polaris Bank as a ‘smart Bank’ for identifying with the fashion sector to grow it.

Polaris Bank’s dedication to business growth and customer satisfaction at the Fashion Souk underscores its commitment to fostering innovation in the MSME sector and driving Nigeria’s economic development which has seen it recognized as Nigeria’s MSME Bank of the Year at last BusinessDay Bank & Other Financial Services Award (BAFI) ceremony which held in November 2023 in Lagos.

As a digital-forward Bank, Polaris continues to lead the way in customer-focused partnerships, reshaping both businesses and communities.

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